Nigerian quarter-miler Edidiong Udo has officially ended his 2025 athletics season, citing the need to take a personal break following the heartbreaking loss of both his parents earlier this year.
In a statement shared through his management, Udo expressed the emotional toll the past months have taken on him, noting that stepping away from competition is necessary for his mental and emotional well-being.
“This has been the most difficult period of my life,” Udo said. “Losing both of my parents has left a void that I need time to process. I am taking this time to grieve, reflect, and begin healing, surrounded by loved ones.”
Udo, 26, emerged as one of Nigeria’s standout 400m athletes in recent seasons, recording consistent performances both domestically and in international meets. His 2025 season started strongly, but the personal tragedy has understandably reshaped his priorities.
Support has poured in from fellow athletes, coaches, and fans, with many commending his strength in making such a decision. Athletic bodies, including the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), have expressed solidarity with Udo and affirmed their readiness to support him during this time.
Coach and sports psychologist Dr. Aisha Lawal praised the move as a “courageous step that emphasizes the importance of mental health and emotional resilience in high-performance sports.”
While there is no set timeline for his return, Udo remains committed to his long-term goals in athletics and plans to return to competition once he has sufficiently recovered.
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